Do The Kansas State Wildcats Need To Get Tight Ends More Involved In Offense?
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When the season began, the tight end position was arguably the strongest for the Kansas State Wildcats.
The unit features the likes of Garrett Oakley, Will Anciaux and Linkon Cure, but it has yet to reach full potential this season. The group has combined to catch 15 passes for 174 yards and no touchdowns.
First-year Kansas State coach Collin Klein said he's noticing that teams are scheming to stop the tight ends because of their talent. That was a big part of the Tulane Green Wave's game plan last week. The Wildcats still won 31-20 despite limited production at tight end.
"But, in the passing game, it's going to depend on the coverage, the leverage, and the progression of the quarterback," Klein said. "So, when their number was called, they did a great job, and I know they're going to be big for us moving forward."
The positive is Wildcats quarterback Avery Johnson is taking advantage by getting the wide receivers and running backs involved in the passing game. Receivers Jaron Tibbs and Josh Manning have emerged as Johnson's top targets, combining for 28 receptions for 292 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Joe Jackson has also factored into the mix with six catches for 96 yards and two scores.
Still, it's just a matter of time before the Wildcats get the tight ends involved more. Oakley is a talent with NFL potential. During training camp, Klein made sure to point out how many scouts visited Manhattan to take a look at Oakley. Cure has the most potential of the group. He is the first five-star recruit in the history of the program. After an injury-stricken freshman season, the Wildcats are expecting a breakout soon and view him as the tight end of the future.
What better time for that to happen in the Big 12 conference opener on the road Saturday against the Cincinnati Bearcats.
MORE KANSAS STATE NEWS
How would you grade K-State coach Collin Klein after three games?
Are the Wildcats relying too much on quarterback Avery Johnson?
Kansas State receiver Jaron Tibbs is finally in the offense.
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Shandel Richardson is the publisher of KStateRoundtable. He can be reached at shandelrich@gmail.com
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